Classifications of Scissor Lifts & Aerial Lift Platforms
A scissor lift is made up of a series of crisscrossed steel arms that are linked to make an X pattern. When raised vertically, the X pattern of support holds the rectangular platform which is located on top of the lifting apparatus. There are support railings along the edges of the lifting mechanism in order to keep the employees safe and help to secure their tools.
Scissor lifts provide a low profile which is great for pavement, hard dirt surfaces and concrete. These equipment use either an electric motor or a combustion engine in order to move the lift and power the lifting mechanism. The operator should move the lift itself if she or he needs to travel horizontally, because the lift mechanism just operates the lift vertically.
Rough Terrain Scissor Lift
The rough terrain scissor lift and the standard scissor lift utilize the same lifting technology. The main difference is that the rough terrain units feature a different base that is particularly made for uneven surfaces. These units also provide higher ground clearance and oversized all terrain tires. The rough terrain scissor lifts use 4-wheel drive in order to easily navigate through difficult and muddy terrain.
Telescopic Boom Lift
The telescopic boom lift uses a telescoping beam that elevates both diagonally and vertically. This particular model has a small work platform which houses controls to be able to control the boom. The controls function with a combustion engine in order to power the hydraulics that power the boom and move the lift. The telescopic boom lift is an independent lift unit and has off-road capable tires.
Articulating Boom Lift
The articulating boom lift features 2 telescopic booms which are connected with a moving elbow mechanism. This lifting machinery has a small work platform or a bucket that is equipped with hand controls to be able to control the boom. These are stand-alone lifts that are powered by a combustion engine. Articulating boom lifts are offered with either off-road or hard surface tires. These lifts are made to be able to reach over top of and on top of buildings.
Aerial Mast Lift
The aerial mast lift uses a telescopic mast in order to raise a work platform vertically into the air. Normally, these lifts are electrically powered or pneumatic powered and are self-propelled equipment. These equipment provide a great solution for working in high racks in narrow warehouse aisles. It is very vital to note that aerial mast lifts are not recommended for off-road use and are limited to vertical movement.